How to Choose Which Course to Study After SPM

how to choose after spm

Picking the perfect course to study after SPM can be overwhelming especially when you don’t even know if that is suitable for you.

If you aren’t sure of which course to take, here are some of the most common pre-university programmes at top private universities in Malaysia to help you understand.

 

 

Courses in Malaysia After SPM

 

Foundation

A foundation programme is designed to equip students with basic skills and knowledge needed before a bachelor’s degree programme. 

Popular programmes that are offered in Malaysia are Foundation in Science, Foundation in Arts, Foundation in Business and Foundation in Accounting. 

Foundation programmes are usually 50% exams and 50% assignment, and students are assessed through quizzes, assignments and a final examination.

Duration: 1 year

Tuition Fees:  RM10,000 – RM26,000

 

 

A-Level

Based on the UK education system, A-Level is one of the most globally-accepted qualifications for students looking to further their studies. 

This 100% exam-based programme requires students to take up 3 to 4 subjects that will prepare them for their degree of choice.

A-Level has a challenging syllabus and is suitable for students who are looking for flexibility in choosing to further their studies abroad. 

Duration: 1 ½ – 2 years

Tuition Fees:  RM16,000 – RM35,000 

 

 

SACE International and AUSMAT

There are two types of Australian Matriculation offered in Malaysia, the South Australian Matriculation (SAM) or SACE International and AUSMAT, also known as, Western Australian Certificate of Education. 

These programmes are graded by a balanced combination of exams and coursework.

Students are required to complete 5 to 6 subjects of their choice.

Duration: 1 year

Tuition Fees:  RM35,000 – RM40,000

 

 

CIMP

CIMP, also known as the Canadian Pre-University programme, is recognised by universities from all over the world. 

This programme comprises 70% coursework and 30% external examinations. 

Students are required to take 6 subjects with the teaching enhanced by interactive forms of learning. 

Students also must take up a minimum 10 hours of community service prior to completing the programme.

Duration: 12 – 15 months

Tuition Fees:  RM29,000 – RM37,000

 

 

ADTP and ADP

The American Degree Transfer Programme (ADTP) is a programme that allows students to pursue the first two years of their degree in Malaysia and the remaining years in a university abroad. 

There is also the American Degree Program (ADP), which allows students to complete the entire programme locally while still receiving the academic experience and degree certificate of an American university.

This flexible educational approach is 70% coursework and 30% final examination.

The programme requires students to take about 60 credit hours in general subjects before specialising in a specific field of study. 

This programme is also perfect for students who prefer to engage in more exciting assignments and projects in comparison with exams. 

Duration: 4 years

Tuition Fees: RM60,000 for the first 2 years for ADTP

 

 

Diploma

A diploma programme provides students with another pathway to a degree as it is equivalent to the first year of a degree programme. 

With a diploma, you will be equipped with specific hands-on skills and knowledge that will prepare you for the working world. 

Upon completion of a diploma programme, students have the option to either enter the workforce directly or gain entry into the second year of a related degree programme. 

The syllabus for diploma programmes is tailor-made for a specialisation within a field of study, so it is very important for you to be clear on what you want to do in the future before pursuing it. 

Duration: 2 – 2 ½ years

Tuition Fees: RM20,000 – RM60,000

 

 

How to Apply for the Course You Want

Applying for the right course after SPM for you can be a lengthy and complicated process.

With Uni Enrol’s Pathway Match, that process is simplified.

Pathway Match combines technology and human experience to bring maximum savings and personalised information to you, so you can further your studies smoothly.

It helps you compare more than 80 universities for specific courses.

All you need to do is key in results for your highest academic qualification, personal background information and you will be given a list of eligible universities and the nett fee for the relevant course. 

Best part is, the use of Pathway Match and consultation from our counsellors are free. 

We work with top private universities to ensure students are able to receive the latest higher education information without any additional charges.

 

 

4 Benefits of Using Pathway Match 

 

Quick and easy way to find information about tuition fees

You get to skip the long research process! 

With Pathway Match, you will be instantly matched with courses and universities based on your preference and results.

You will get to view tuition fees from the shortlisted institutions and courses in one place to help your decision-making process.

 

 

Get matched with deals that can lower your cost

Along with the list of matched institutions and courses, you can view various types of academic and merit scholarships, and additional benefits in the personalised report.

Aside from not missing out on eligible scholarships, you also could be matched with the bursaries available at Uni Enrol which covers hostels, flights, and bus tickets. 

Once you have successfully applied for your course with Uni Enrol, you can even enjoy discounts to more than 3,000 merchants!

 

 

Fill up your application online

Paper applications are a pain to fill out, but many institutions still rely on them for course registration.

With Uni Enrol, you can choose to complete your entire application process online with the help of our experienced counsellors. 

Did we mention that our services are free?

 

 

Be guided by experienced counsellors

When you have received your results from Pathway Match, you can speak with our experienced counsellors who can guide you on your next steps. 

They are there to guide you along the decision-making process, whether it’s to answer your questions about the cost, course, university, or even your career options.

They will help you find the best way to finance your studies, whether it is through instalment plans, other education loans and even income share agreement that allows you to pay once you start work after graduation. 

Here are 6 simple steps to get the course you want: 

Step 1: Visit https://unienrol.com/pathwaymatch

Step 2: Fill in your academic results and personal preference.

Step 3: Review courses and scholarships matched to you with our counsellors.

Step 4: Complete your application online.

Step 5: Pay the registration fee to the university/college.

Step 6: Receive an offer letter from your desired institutions. 

 

 

3 Tips on Choosing a Course to Study After SPM

 

Know your strengths and weaknesses 

Do you know what you are good/bad at?

Having an understanding of yourself gives you the head start in shaping your goals and visions for the future.

Your strengths can help create an effective path in reaching your visions while learning how to navigate around your weaknesses can improve your chances of success. 

 

 

Know what your interests are 

Determining what you love to do gets you closer to deciding the best course to take after SPM.

One of the proven ways to do this is by taking career quizzes to help narrow down your interests.

Once you have identified them, you will be able to make a well-informed and strategic decision in choosing a course. 

It is the first step in pursuing a career that aligns with your interests and skills.

 

 

Know your financial situation

The cost for higher education varies, but the fact is it is a significant investment.

There are multiple financing options to help students fund their studies so it is important to identify a budget for your tertiary education. 

Then, you will be able to narrow down the options to fit your preference. 

Don’t forget to also consider financial aid such as scholarships, and loans from PTPTN, banks, and corporations.

Still have questions? Contact Uni Enrol now to speak to our experienced counsellors. 

Further reading:

Your Easy Guide to Applying for PTPTN Loan

All You Need to Know About PTPTN